Wait List Frequently Asked Questions

Every year, MSU Law places applicants on the Wait List. Below are some Frequently Asked Questions that should help answer most questions for waitlisted candidates. If you have any further questions, please contact the Office of Admissions.

I was placed on the wait list, now what?

MSU Law will periodically place applicants on the wait list. With substantially more applications than spots available in each entering class, the wait list allows students to be allocated spots in the incoming class as they become available. Unfortunately, there is no set timeline for review of the wait list, nor a guarantee that students will receive a spot in the incoming class after being placed on the wait list. Traditionally, wait list decisions have been made as early as May and as late as August. If there is any change on your wait list status, we will contact you as soon as possible to allow you to prepare for the fall semester.

Is the wait list ranked?

No, the wait list is not ranked. If the Admissions Committee needs to utilize the wait list, all confirmed wait list candidates will be holistically reviewed again.

Should I visit while I am on the wait list?

If an offer is extended, accepting your offer by paying your seat deposit will be a relatively quick turn-around (typically 24 to 48 hours). Therefore, we encourage you to set up a tour of the College of Law, if you have not done so already, if you feel that visiting us will be a part of your decision making process.

Does MSU Law require interviews as part of the admissions process?

No, MSU Law does not require, nor utilize, interviews as part of the wait list process.

Should I submit a Letter of Continued Interest?

Letters of Continued Interest are encouraged and welcomed. Letters can be sent to admiss@law.msu.edu. Please limit your Letters of Continued Interest to one letter every four to five weeks.

What types of updates should I submit if I am waitlisted?

Students who are on the wait list should submit any updated undergraduate transcripts, or additional letters of recommendation (if you have not already maxed out at 4) to LSAC so that an updated CAS Report will be sent to MSU Law. Any other updates regarding your resume or any significant changes to your application that were not included when you first submitted your application and should have been, should be sent to admiss@law.msu.edu.

How will I be notified if I am pulled off the waitlist?

Traditionally, wait list decisions have been made as early as May and as late as August. The Admissions Committee will do a holistic review of those waitlisted to determine possible candidates to contact, typically by phone, during this period. Therefore, please make sure to have your voicemail set up and continuously check it throughout the spring and summer. If contacted, we will initially be verifying the status of your continued interest in a possible offer of admission. The Committee will then decide how many, if any, offers will be extended based on the response to the initial outreach.

What do I do if I no longer wish to be considered for admission from the wait list due to making other plans for my legal education?

If your plans change and you no longer wish to remain on the active wait list, please let us know by emailing admiss@law.msu.edu.